As your children grow, they are experiencing many changes. They shoot up in height seemingly overnight, grow their vocabulary by leaps and bounds, and their hobbies and interests develop. One other change often noted is the transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth. While it may seem like a process that happens all on its own, this transitional time does need your care and attention as a parent.

Future dental problems, jaw alignment issues, and self-esteem concerns can all be affected by the way that permanent teeth make their grand entrance as they erupt through the gums and displace baby teeth. As an orthodontist in Melbourne, FL, we recommend a visit to an orthodontist by the age of seven. Evaluating how your child’s teeth, jaw, and facial structure are developing separately and together provides an opportunity to assess the likelihood of future problems, provide interim solutions, and fix any critical problems.

What are some early signs of dental trouble you may be able to recognize at home? Consider this list provided by the American Association of Orthodontists:

-Prolonged thumb-sucking

-Grinding or clenching of teeth

-Baby teeth being lost noticeably early or late

-Permanent teeth that are blocked, crowded, or misplaced

-Breathing through the mouth

-Jaw that appears too far forward or too far back

-Teeth meeting in an abnormal way, or teeth that don’t meet at all

At Melbourne Orthodontics, we encourage parents to take a proactive approach when it comes to their child’s oral health. If you have any questions or concerns as to how your child’s teeth, jaw, or facial systems are developing, don’t hesitate to contact us today and schedule a consultation.